Don't Underestimate Your Accomplishments

Many of us underestimate our achievements. We’re often told not to boast, that modesty is the best policy. We show up to do our jobs every day and sometimes do great things — isn’t that enough?

Well, not if you want your resume to get noticed. Employers look for achievers, candidates who go above and beyond their job duties. Your resume allows you to describe your best accomplishments so employers want to take a chance on you.

What's Your Nursing Trivia IQ?

If you think you have no career accomplishments, think again. Everybody has them; it’s just a matter of digging down and pinpointing what they are.

What Is an Accomplishment?

On your resume, an accomplishment is an example of how you contributed to your employer, or it’s an achievement that reflects the kind of worker you are. The most convincing accomplishments are measurable. Examples:
• A welder relays her dedication to quality: “Achieved a record of zero defects in all pipe-welding and ductwork jobs.”
• An engineer shows how he contributed to the bottom line: “Drove $1.2 million revenue increase by deploying 200-plus software suites for company’s leading product line.”
• A minister demonstrates how she increased church participation: “Helped grow membership from 175 to 249 in one year through active involvement in community events.”

Getting Started

Set a timer for five minutes, and start jotting down your accomplishments for your most recent position. Write down any accomplishment, contribution or achievement that comes to mind, even if it seems insignificant. Complete this exercise for each position on your resume.

To help jog your memory, here are questions to ask yourself:

• Did you receive praise, recognition or pats on the back from your supervisor or colleagues? For what (e.g., completing projects ahead of deadline, calming down irate customers, saving money)?
• Did you receive a promotion, award or commendations from customers/clients?
• Were you selected for special projects, committees or task forces?
• Name three accomplishments that make you proud. Did you complete a particularly challenging assignment? Participate in a solution that improved customer service, enhanced efficiency, saved money/time or increased revenues?
• Are you known throughout your department/company for something?
• If you quit your job, what would everybody say about your work at your good-bye party?